Empowerment through learning: Skills4Recovery retrains Ukraine's workforce for reconstruction and resilience

In conversation with Michael Paulo

— The Skills4Recovery program is designed to support individuals impacted by the war and economic challenges. It focuses on providing training and upskilling opportunities to help people rebuild their livelihoods and integrate into the workforce. Mr. Paulo, can you tell us more about the main goals of the program? 

Skills4Recovery was established to improve the availability of a skilled workforce in Ukraine. We understand that your country faces a dual challenge: there aren't enough skilled workers, and many unemployed individuals lack the skills required by the labor market. On one hand, we aim to train and retrain young people and adults. On the other hand, we focus on activating groups currently outside the labor market.

This includes women, people with disabilities, and the growing group of ex-combatants returning from the battlefield. These individuals need support to reintegrate into society and find decent employment opportunities.

On the tangible results

— As the year ends and the program expands until 2026, can you say it has achieved part of its goals? What has been accomplished so far, and what are the plans for the next two years? 

We started our support for training and retraining at the beginning of 2024, and over the past 12 months, we've achieved remarkable results. For example, we've supported the training or retraining of around 2,400 individuals. Additionally, we've trained 1,100 school managers and teachers in school management and inclusive education practices.

We've also provided support to Ukraine's Ministry of Education and Science and the Ministry of Economy. One key outcome is the labor market data we've collected — our Skills Mapping project identifies which skills are in demand and this resource is available to policymakers across Ukraine.

Results of the Skills4Recovery program. Infographics provided by Skills4Recovery

Last week, we launched a web platform in collaboration with Oksen Lysovyi, the Minister of Education and Science. This platform helps veterans access further education and training opportunities. There are around 1,200 educational programs listed, helping individuals find paths for retraining and reintegration into society.

Beyond the numbers, there are individual success stories. For instance, Inna Skrypnyk, a lawyer with ten years of experience from Mariupol, relocated due to the war and took short-term courses to become an electrical equipment technician. She interned at an enterprise during her training and secured a job there. Despite having a higher education background, she found fulfillment in a completely new field.

She mentioned that participation in the project had a significant impact on her life, especially because it allowed her to learn a new profession. Her story is an example of how it's never too late to change your life, follow your dreams and dare to make a new beginning.

Inna Skrypnyk. Photo provided by Skills4Recovery

— That's a powerful example. Women, in particular, are stepping into roles traditionally occupied by men, especially with the labor shortage caused by the war. It's inspiring to see people adapting and finding satisfaction in new careers.

Exactly. Inna's story is an excellent example. She transitioned from being a lawyer — a profession she noted might soon be impacted by AI advancements like ChatGPT — to a technical role she enjoys. She's now contributing to Ukraine's economy in Kryvyi Rih, near the combat zone, demonstrating resilience and adaptability.

Another example is Volodymyr Leha, a former serviceman from Kryvyi Rih. He used to work in a factory and after demobilization underwent upgrade training and secured a job as a welder. As a father of three, this stable employment allows him to support his family. For people like Volodymyr, vocational training acts as a bridge, helping them transition from military service back to civilian life with purpose and stability.

Volodymyr Leha. Photo provided by Skills4Recovery

On mental health and accessibility

— Do you think the program also addresses mental well-being? It seems like it's about more than just practical skills — it helps individuals adjust to civilian life.

Absolutely. Vocational education and training have multiple dimensions. Economically, the program addresses labor shortages by preparing people for in-demand jobs, contributing to Ukraine's resilience during the war. Individually, it provides people — especially youth — with career paths and better income opportunities.

Socially, the program is vital for groups like ex-combatants, women reentering the workforce after years of family responsibilities, and people with disabilities. It gives them self-esteem, a role in society, and a path to reintegration. Vocational training acts as a bridge for these groups, offering opportunities for personal and professional growth. Germany is supporting Ukraine because we really believe that Ukraine can only become a sovereign country when there is a functioning labor market, when there is a growing economy and when there are opportunities for people. 

— That social aspect is so important. It's also encouraging to think about how these efforts might support returnees — Ukrainians who were forced to flee their homeland due to war and who want to come back from abroad.

Precisely. If returnees see a thriving job market or programs that help them adapt to new labor demands, they'll be more inclined to come back. This is critical for Ukraine's recovery and sovereignty.

— Skills4Recovey is also aimed at making job opportunities accessible. Can you elaborate on how the program ensures it reaches all the vulnerable groups?

Our approach focuses on working through Ukrainian organizations like vocational schools and state employment training institutes. Our mandate is to build the capacity of these organizations so they can deliver effective training and retraining programs to the population. We have two main models there. The first is a direct approach, where we finance training courses. These courses are designed collaboratively with training providers and employers, ensuring the qualifications offered align with labor market demands. Currently, we focus on four key sectors: agriculture, construction, transport and logistics, and services.

The second approach is more indirect. It involves capacitating organizations, particularly vocational schools and training institutes. In Ukraine, many teachers are experienced in training young people aged 15 to 19. However, the dynamics change when adults seek training. Teaching adults requires different pedagogical methods, and we're equipping educators to address these differences. We're also helping them better support vulnerable groups, such as ex-combatants or people with disabilities, who have unique needs. For instance, we've trained around 1,100 teachers and school managers in inclusive education and managing these challenges.

In summary, we're directly supporting training programs and, at the same time, building the capacity of educators and institutions to adapt to current demands.

In conversation with Michael Paulo

— But with so many needs, how do you scale these efforts?

It's true that our efforts — such as training 2,500 individuals — might seem like a drop in the ocean. That's why we work closely with both the Ministry of Education and Science and the Ministry of Economy to develop policies and strategies. For example, we've contributed to the strategy for inclusion and programs for ex-combatants. The lessons we've learned from our projects are being used to improve national frameworks, ultimately benefiting more schools and individuals.

On what needs to be done

— You've mentioned the four sectors you're focusing on. Which one has the highest demand in Ukraine's labor market?

Currently, transport and logistics, as well as construction, are leading in terms of demand. Employers in these sectors emphasize the need for specific skill sets, often with a digital and green focus. For example, in construction, energy efficiency and renewable energy are critical areas. Across all sectors, however, one common requirement stands out: soft skills.

Ukraine's economy and private sector are evolving. Employers now expect employees to work proactively, manage projects, and network — a shift toward a more modern, European approach. Language skills, digital competencies, and adaptability are becoming essential.

— The Skills4Recovery program's labor market analysis revealed that a skills mismatch is more pressing than a lack of candidates. Given this skills mismatch, what are the long-term implications for Ukraine's recovery?

The skills mismatch has been an issue even before the war, compounded by trends like an aging population, emigration, and displacement. The war has intensified these challenges, particularly with reduced male participation in the labor market due to mobilization.

To address this, Ukraine needs a robust employment strategy. The first priority should be upskilling and reskilling the existing workforce, even those currently employed, to align with 21st-century demands. Secondly, the government must activate the inactive population through retraining programs. This includes unemployed individuals lacking necessary skills, as well as groups like ex-combatants, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and women.

In the future, returning citizens could also bolster the labor market. However, this depends on creating a stable environment with peace and economic opportunities. Lastly, while foreign labor might be an option, societal readiness to embrace it is another consideration.

— How can the government encourage inactive groups of population to join the workforce?

Understanding the reasons behind inactivity is crucial. Many face barriers, whether it's a lack of skills or societal attitudes. For instance, employers may need to be convinced to hire women in traditionally male roles or to recognize people with disabilities as valuable contributors. Ex-combatants may require psychological support and people with disabilities might need tailored job opportunities, such as roles in agriculture or less physically demanding services.

The government's role is to collaborate closely with the private sector to identify suitable opportunities for these groups. Each group — whether young people, women, or individuals with disabilities — requires specific strategies and pathways for integration.

Young people are a vital yet often overlooked group in labor market discussions. The government must demonstrate that staying in Ukraine offers promising career opportunities. Training and retaining young talent within the country is critical for economic stability and growth.

On how the program works?

— Skills4Recovery mostly works with the government and public sector, but can private sector organizations and NGOs contribute to or participate in your retraining programs? How can they help with providing the foundation for retraining and education?

That's an excellent point. Ultimately, the outcome of everything we're doing should benefit employers in Ukraine. Our program is labor-market-driven, and employer involvement is a cornerstone of our activities, both at the local and national levels.

For instance, we've supported six corporate projects so far. These projects are collaborations between training providers and companies, such as a program to help women transition into traditionally male-dominated professions.

In conversation with Michael Paulo

Additionally, for training and retraining programs that last three to six months, a key requirement is that employers must be involved. Trainees not only attend classroom sessions but also participate in on-the-job training or internships at enterprises. This approach allows employers to observe participants' skills during the training process and potentially employ them afterward.

We're also working on developing strategies to improve skills development in the four sectors we focus on — construction, agriculture, transport and logistics, and services. In the future, we aim to create roadmaps where the government and private sector, including business associations, collaborate to enhance training within these industries.

— What have been the biggest challenges in implementing the program? Often, we hear about success stories, but failures are rarely discussed. Have there been instances where participants couldn't find jobs or realized their training wasn't the right fit for them? How do you address such situations?

That's an important question. One of the challenges we face is dropouts, though they're relatively rare — usually under 5%. We work hard during the enrollment process to ensure the right candidates and employers are involved. This screening minimizes dropouts because participants see the training as a genuine opportunity to re-enter the labor market.

To further reduce dropouts, we address common barriers like travel costs and childcare. For example, we provide scholarships, daily stipends, and, in some cases, childcare support for women. These measures stem from lessons learned in past projects.

Beyond individual dropouts, our biggest challenge is working in a war-affected country. Frequent electricity cuts make online lessons difficult, and employers face immense operational challenges. For us, the key has been to remain flexible — adapting to deteriorating or improving circumstances as needed.

For example, in 2023, when we developed Skills4Recovery, the focus was on recovery, as optimism about victory was high. By 2024, the situation required more stabilization efforts. Through all this, the resilience of the Ukrainian people has been inspiring and a constant reminder of why our work is essential. 

— Which regions in Ukraine have the highest demand for retraining programs?

Currently, there's a regional mismatch. Most job vacancies are in Ukraine's west and center, while unemployment is highest in the east and south.

We initially worked in six regions: Dnipro, Poltava, Kyiv, Vinnytsia, Lviv, and Chernivtsi. With additional support from the EU, Estonia, and Poland, we're expanding to roughly 50 training providers across Ukraine. This expansion will ensure a broader geographical reach, stabilizing labor markets in all regions, including the east and south. Our goal is to support Ukraine as a whole, not just specific areas.

— Could you elaborate on the enrollment process? What steps should people take to join the program? 

The enrollment process is managed by individual training providers, but we provide guidelines to ensure inclusivity. We prioritize certain groups, such as women, people with disabilities, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and ex-combatants. However, everyone is welcome to apply.

Typically, participants submit applications directly to training providers. Information about training programs is often posted on the providers' websites or social media pages. The upcoming programs in February and March will be more focused on retraining women, and April and May programs will target vulnerable groups.

We're also introducing a new approach where companies hire staff first and then train them through the program in partnership with training providers. However, there will still be open opportunities for individuals without prior employment connections.